Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Declaring October as Walk to School Month
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to proclaim October as Walk to School Month
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim October as Walk to School Month
Staff Contact:
Michelle Swanson, AICP, Senior Program Specialist, Public Works | Transportation, 360.753.8575
Presenter(s):
Jessica Gould, Intercity Transit, Walk & Roll Coordinator
Background and Analysis:
Olympia partners with other public agencies and schools to promote walking and biking to school. More students walking and biking results in less traffic congestion and air pollution around schools. Students who walk and bike to school also benefit from the increased exercise and interaction with their surroundings, which results in improved school performance.
Olympia has received Washington State Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School grant funds for pedestrian improvements near schools. The most recent example is the Quince Street sidewalk project near Reeves Middle School. The City has also partnered with the Olympia School District to install five new school zone flashing beacons around Olympia High School this year.
Also, some Olympia police officers and firefighters join students for monthly Walk & Roll events, which are held to encourage students to walk or bike to school.
Led by Intercity Transit, Thurston County, the Cities of Lacey, Tumwater, and Olympia are passing similar proclamations recognizing October as Walk to School Month.
Attachments:
Proclamation